1980 Chevrolet Corvette C3 - Tech Corner

1980 Chevrolet Corvette C3

Question: I have an '80 Corvette. When it rains, the carpet under the front floor mat gets soaking wet. I think the leak is coming from the windshield area. Do you have any idea what could be causing it?FrankVia the Internet

Answer: A leaking front windshield is a very common problem with C3 Corvettes. The windshield frame does not drain water properly. Debris collects in the channels under the exterior moldings, creating a perfect atmosphere for corrosion to occur. Your water leak is most likely caused by the corrosion that has taken place in the windshield frame.

The easiest way to check for a problem is to look at the frame between the glass and the windshield molding and inspect for any signs of rust or deterioration. To properly repair your Corvette's windshield frame, the windshield will need to be removed, and the entire frame will need to be cut out and repaired with new sections. Fortunately, these pieces are available from many aftermarket suppliers.

Question: I have a question about my '99 Corvette. The passenger-side seatbelt is all the way out and will not retract. Have you heard of anyone else with this problem?Bobby M.Via the Internet

Answer: This is a common problem on the C5. Basically, the webbing is twisted. Chevy issued a Product Safety recall-No. 00034-which includes all '97, '98, '99, and many '00 model Corvettes. You'll need to have your local dealer check his electronic file using the car's VIN to confirm whether your vehicle is included in the campaign. You can also call Chevrolet customer assistance at (800) 222-1020.

The recall will have the dealer install a guide kit in the seatbelt. If your car is not covered or already has the guide kit installed, you may simply need to untwist the belt by following these steps:

1. Remove the sill plate by lifting and unsnapping the clips from the door.2. Remove the sill plate from the hinge pillar by lifting and unsnapping it.3. Slide the sill plate from under the hinge-pillar trim.4. Remove the lock-pillar trim by gently pulling the panel away from the lock pillar.5. Slide the lock-pillar trim from under the rear-compartment side-panel trim.6. Remove the lock-pillar trim from the seatbelt webbing.7. Pull the lap-belt webbing out of the retractor and remove any twisted areas.

Good luck.

Question: When I take off from a stop in my '02 Corvette, I hear a popping noise. I was at a Corvette show and ran into a guy who had the same problem. He said that the dealer had installed a new type of rear-axle fluid in his C6. Can I use this fluid in my C5, and will it help with the popping noise?MarkVia the Internet

Answer: General Motors did release a new rear-axle fluid in early 2008. The new fluid is called Dexron LS Gear Oil 75W90, and it carries part number 88862624 in the U.S. (PN 88862625 in Canada). This fluid can be used in all Corvettes from '97 through current production. You'll need approximately three quarts to perform the change.

While you're at it, be sure to also check for loose or broken stabilizer endlinks, rust on the rear-axle splines (which could result from a rusty or defective hub assembly), or even a loose shock bolt. Happy hunting.

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